Expert advice on going green
Wednesday, 06 Jun 2007 13:27
For Archticture Week householders can get expert advice for their home
If you are confused about zero carbon homes, wind turbines, and solar panels or just want to talk to a local architect about design issues, then a new scheme for Architecture Week 2007 could help you get expert advice.
From Architecture Week onwards, which runs from June 15th to 24th 2007, householders can take advantage of a new scheme matching them with a local architect.
Run by Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) members, the Architect in the House scheme will give hour-long sessions in exchange for a minimum donation of £40 to the housing charity Shelter.
"This is wonderful opportunity for anyone thinking about design changes to meet with a local architect for some valuable no-strings advice, and in the process helping to improve someone else's housing situation through the work of Shelter," commented Jack Pringle, president of the RIBA.
"With Architecture Week focusing on sustainability this year, it will be a particularly timely opportunity for homeowners to ask for advice on how to make their houses more energy and carbon efficient."
Homeowners can register interest for the scheme at
www.architectureweek.org.uk
The scheme's organisers have also put together a series of green tips from architects Jestico + Whiles to think about when it comes to eco-friendly home improvements:
Unlock the potential - the key to being green is not to build unnecessarily: ask an architect to help unlock the potential extra space and light you need for your home.
Sun worship - as the weather continues to heat up, take advantage of the rays using solar panels to produce hot water. In the summer, just one or two solar panels can produce 80 per cent of the hot water used by the average couple. Speak to an architect about where best to position the panel.
Keep it simple - consider energy saving light bulbs, double-glazing, draught sealing and extra insulation before putting a wind turbine on your roof - simple changes are often the most effective.
Keep cool - keep temperatures down and banish air conditioning by taking a tip from our Mediterranean neighbours. Add shutters or solar shading blinds to your windows to control glare and heat from the sun.
Keep warm - use sheep's wool or recycled newspaper to insulate your loft and cavity walls to keep your home warm without needing to resort to central heating.